If you don’t know the name of your advisor, check the View Student General Information screen on DuckWeb. If an advisor is not listed, contact your major department or see the list on Declared Major Advising. If you are undeclared, contact the Office of Academic Advising at 346-3211.
You will want to meet with your advisor regularly. Many students find it helpful to meet each academic term. It is important to plan ahead and not wait until busy registration times to arrange a meeting.
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Is it important to get to know professors? What are office hours for?
It is always useful to get to know your professors. Professors keep office hours, and the times and locations will be on your syllabus, usually distributed on the first day of class. Office hours are a good time to discuss ideas generated in class, to clarify assignments, and to share common enthusiasms with professors. Eventually, you may well be asking professors for letters of recommendation, and strong, specific letters require that your professor know you as well as your work.
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Can I take a term off from school and return?
Yes. If you return the next term you can simply register for classes along with UO continuing students. If you are away for more than three terms (not counting summer), you will need to file a Re- enrollment Form with the Office of the Registrar. These forms are available online or in the Office of the Registrar. Courtesy suggests that you notify your advisor of your plan to take time off. If you are receiving financial aid, be sure to discuss the implications with a financial aid counselor. You should also discuss your plans with the Housing Office if you are living in university housing. Summer session allows an opportunity to make up some classes missed during the regular school year.
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What GPA is necessary to make the Dean's List?
Dean’s List designations are given to admitted undergraduates with a term GPA of at least 3.75 who have completed 15 total credits, with at least 12 credits graded. These designations are given fall, winter, and spring terms. These students receive a special designation on their academic records.
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How do I change a course from graded to Pass/No Pass?
When you register for a course, DuckWeb automatically selects the graded option for classes where variable grading is available. If you wish to take the Pass/No Pass option, click "Change Variable Credit/Grading Option" at the bottom of the page. To make a grading option change for a course with an associated section, such as a lecture course with a lab or discussion section, use only the CRN of the lecture. In other words, change the grading option for the lecture but not the lab or discussion associated with the lecture. See the academic calendar posted on the Registrar's web site for the deadline to change grading options (select Academic Dates & Deadlines). Remember to view your class schedule in text format to confirm that the changes you make are correct
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What happens if I have several final exams scheduled on the same day?
You should review the schedule of final examinations on your DuckWeb schedule prior to registering to avoid conflicts, or if you wish to avoid multiple examinations on a single day. If you are scheduled to take MORE than three examinations in one day you may take an examination(s) as a make-up exam(s) at another time in the week. The Office of Academic Advising in 364 Oregon Hall will counsel students with multiple examination problems. You should contact the Office of Academic Advising at least a week BEFORE final examination week.
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The class schedule and the UO Catalog are both available online. The catalog can also be purchased at the UO Bookstore and at the cashier counter in Oregon Hall. The class schedule is only available online. [Back to top]
When do I register for classes?
Look at the list of when to register by going to the Registration Priority Schedule, which is available on the Registrar's web site. Priority for registration is determined by the number of credits you have completed. The more credits you have completed, the earlier you are able to register. For example, seniors (students who have completed more than 134 credits) register before sophomores (students who have completed 45-89 credits). Your registration time will also vary each term according to the last three digits of your student ID number. [Back to top]
What is a PAC? What is a PIN?
A PAC is your personal access code. It ensures the security of your academic and financial records. Used with your student ID number, your PAC is your password to registering for classes and for using DuckWeb.
The Office of Admissions provides you with your PAC when you apply for admission. When you first use your PAC, you will be asked to create a security question. If you have problems with your PAC, visit the Office of the Registrar in 220 Oregon Hall with your photo ID.
The first time you register as a regularly enrolled student, you will need not only your ID and PAC, but a "registration PIN" as well. Your advisor will provide you with this PIN after you have attended an academic orientation and been advised by a major advisor or an advisor who works with undeclared students.
Your advisor will give you a PIN after you have participated in an academic orientation and advising session. If you forget it or have trouble registering because of the PIN, please contact the Office of Academic Advising at 346-3211 or come to 364 Oregon Hall. [Back to top]
I've just been admitted to the University. When do I register for classes?
Registration for all new students occurs as a part of a New Student Academic Orientation. Orientations for students admitted for Fall term include the May Advising Day for transfer students, IntroDUCKtion (in July), and Week of Welcome (in September). The Office of Academic Advising also coordinates mid-year orientations for students admitted for Winter, Spring, or Summer terms. It is mandatory for all admitted undergraduate students to attend a New Student Academic Orientation. You will not be permitted to register for classes without attending an advising program. Additional information on New Student Academic Orientations can be found at http://advising.uoregon.edu/AA_Pages/AA_NewUOStudents.html.
What if I am unable to attend IntroDUCKtion?
If you are admitted as a freshman for the fall term, you should
make every effort to attend IntroDUCKtion. At IntroDUCKtion, students receive an introduction to general academic and graduation requirements for the university. You will also have the opportunity to meet with a departmental or undeclared advisor who will help you select classes for the upcoming term and clarify the registration process. After you meet with an advisor, you will register for Fall term courses in a campus computer lab.
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If you are unable to attend IntroDUCKtion, you are required to come to Week of Welcome, which occurs in September. Week of Welcome is your final opportunity for orientation, advising, and registration for fall term. You will attend an academic advising workshop and an individual advising appointment before you will be able to register for your classes. Information about Week of Welcome is mailed to new students in August. Week of Welcome information is also available at http://orientation.uoregon.edu/SO_Pages/SO_WeekOfWelcome.html
How many courses should I take my first quarter?
Four academic courses (a total of approximately 15-16 credits) are recommended per term. You must register for at least 12 credits to be considered a full-time undergraduate student. Some students may take more or fewer credits depending on their interests and whether they have other time commitments including jobs, family, and/or commuting. [Back to top]
How do I get an e-mail address?
Please visit Information Services online for detailed information about requesting an account and getting an email address.
How do AP, IB, CLEP, and military credits transfer to the UO?
Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Military Credit, and College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) allow students to receive college credits. AP and IB tests are given to high school students. For the most current listing of how these various credits transfer to the UO, please visit the Office of Admissions web site at http://admissions.uoregon.edu/freshman.html
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AP, IB, CLEP, and military credit are awarded P* (Pass, no option of a letter grade) grades and count toward the 168 ABCDP* hours requirement.
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Advanced Placement credit: For AP, only scores of 4 or 5 are considered for credit for most AP exams beginning in fall 2008. A score of 3 receives credit only on selected AP exams. Refer to the Advanced Credit web page at http://registrar.uoregon.edu/students/advancedCredit.html for further details.
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International Baccalaureate credit: For IB, only scores of 5 are considered for credit.
College-Level Examination Program credit: A national College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows students to earn college credit by taking general exams in humanities, social sciences, and sciences, as well as subject exams. The general exams are limited to those who have completed fewer than 90 college credits.
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Military Credit: As recommended by the American Council on Education’s Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services, and in accordance with University and State policies regarding transfer credit, the UO generally grants credit for military educational experience.
Official Materials: For information on sending official copies of AP, IB, CLEP, and/or military work to the UO, look at the Advanced Credit web page and contact the Office of Admissions.
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Is it possible to get credit by taking an examination without enrolling in a course?
Yes, it is, for some courses. Students who are admitted to and enrolled at the UO can challenge undergraduate courses—with the approval of the department—to earn credit by examination. While you can sometimes receive a grade for a Credit by Examination exam, it will not count toward your GPA. For more information, consult the Advanced Credits on the Office of Admissions web site and contact the Office of the Registrar. [Back to top]
How do I know whether the courses I took at another school transferred (and the number of credits transferred)?
Once you are admitted as a UO student, but before you attend a new student orientation, you should receive a Transfer Evaluation Reportand a Degree Audit from the Office of Admissions. These reports will show you how your previous college coursework has transferred to the UO. You should use these tools for planning future classes and bring them to your scheduled orientation session. See the Student Handbook for more information.
It is important that you verify that all of your credit has been transferred through the UO Office of the Registrar. If you take classes somewhere other than the UO, be sure to submit an official transcript to the Registrar.
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How do I know what requirements I have already satisfied?
Address questions about transfer credits to a record specialist in the Office of Admissions, 220 Oregon Hall, or contact them by phone at (541) 346-3243. [Back to top]
MAJOR
Do I have to have a major?
Yes. In order to graduate with an undergraduate degree, you must choose and complete a major.
Note that while most majors allow undergraduate students to choose a BA (bachelor of arts) or a BS (bachelor of science), some majors require a BA, BS, BFA (fine arts), BArch (architecture), BEd (education), BIArch (interior architecture), BLA (landscape architecture), or BMus (music).
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When and how do I declare my major?
Nearly half of all UO students are undecided about majors when they enter college. On average, students should try to declare a major by the winter of their sophomore year. This usually puts them in a good position to graduate in four years. However, if you are interested in a graduate program that involves a lot of classes in sequence for your undergraduate major (e.g., science courses in preparation for medical school), you may need to declare a major—or at least begin your math and science sequences—earlier in order to graduate in four years.
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Go to the main office of the department that oversees the major you want to declare. Then, request an appointment with an advisor in that department.
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NOTE: Some majors require a more formal application process. These include: Art, Music, Business, Education, Journalism, Architecture, International Studies, Family and Human Services, and Planning, Public Policy and Management. Students interested in these majors should meet with an advisor during their freshman and sophomore years to discuss requirements to get into these majors.
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How do I choose a major?
Most students have plenty of time to consider potential majors during their first two years of college. Use your freshman and sophomore years to try different courses while fulfilling your general education requirements. In addition, take an elective course every term in something that interests you.
Visit the Office of Academic Advising's (OAA) web site and click on Choose Your Major for other suggestions, inventories, and interactive activities on this topic.
Attend an Office of Academic Advising workshop on choosing a major, which is offered fall, winter, and spring terms.
Visit the Career Center in 204 Hendricks Hall, and take the “Majors Assessment;” play the “Majors Game.”
Visit the Office of Academic Advising, 364 Oregon Hall, and play the “Majors Game.”
Ask yourself: What are my interests? What classes have I enjoyed?
Do I have a career in mind? There is also information about choosing majors in your Student Handbook and in the UO Catalog
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Do I have to complete a minor?
No. Minors are optional, but are strongly encouraged. Minors require at least 24 credits.
Visit the department office of the minor you wish to add.
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WITHDRAWING
What can I do if I’m in a class that is over my head?
Talk with your instructor. New and unfamiliar material can feel intimidating for anyone. Study hard, immerse yourself in the subject, and then assess—with your instructor’s help—whether you really are in over your head. Consider seeking educational supports that are available on campus, such as tutoring through the University Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) .
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Talk with an advisor in the Office of Academic Advising.
Know the deadlines for withdrawing or changing your grading option in the class. These dates are posted on the Registrar's web site.
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NOTE: To potentially avoid being over your head in a class, be sure you have met the prerequisites of a class before registering. Also, some courses are part of a year long sequence where each course builds on the material covered in previous courses in the sequence. Check with the department to find out whether or not you can take the class out of sequence. It might be possible for history courses but not permitted for physics or chemistry.
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When is the deadline to drop or withdraw from class(es)?
For a calendar that includes academic deadlines, visit the web site of the Office of the Registrar and select Academic Dates and Deadlines. This calendar contains information about various deadlines including the deadlines for dropping and/or withdrawing.
The drop deadlines vary from term to term. On the Class Schedule, available at http://classes.uoregon.edu, select a term, select a course, and then click the 5-digit CRN for the withdrawal deadlines and tuition refund schedule for that course.
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REMEMBER TO VIEW YOUR SCHEDULE IN TEXT FORMAT IF YOU DROP A CLASS TO CONFIRM YOUR CHANGES ARE ACCURATE.
How can I switch a section after the drop deadline?
You will need to petition the Academic Requirements Committee to change sections of a course after the add/drop deadlines. To pick up a petition, please visit the Office of the Registrar, in 220 Oregon Hall.
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How do I drop my classes?
If you drop your last class, you are withdrawing from the university for the term. Students who wish to withdraw must use DuckWeb to withdraw from one or all of their classes. If you have questions about withdrawing, please contact your academic advisor, department office, or an advisor in the Office of Academic Advising. This contact will give you the opportunity to discuss your options and address any questions you might have.
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What do I do if I get an “F” in a class that I thought I had dropped?
You will need to petition the Scholastic Review Committee for a Retroactive Withdrawal. Please see an advisor in the Office of Academic Advising in 364 Oregon Hall, if you feel there are compelling reasons. Pick up a petition and discuss your particular situation with an advisor.
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REQUIREMENTS
How many credits do I need to graduate?
All undergraduate students need at least a total of 180 credits to graduate. (Some professional degrees in the School of Architecture and Allied Arts require more than 180 credits.) A minimum of 62 of the total 180 credits must be upper-division credits (300 level and above).
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Is there a limit on the number of Pass/No Pass (P/NP) courses I can take?
Yes. Students are generally limited to taking 12 credits of courses “Pass/No Pass” if the course is also offered for a grade. Courses that are offered only as P/NP (without a grading option) are considered P* courses. P* courses do not count towards the 12 credit limit. Regardless of the number of credits you need to finish your undergraduate degree, you need to have 168 credits in which you receive an A, B, C, D, P*. (If you graduate with more than 180 credits, the 12 credit limit could increase, but the 168 ABCDP* credits would remain.) Check your Degree Audit to review your progress on these and other degree requirements.
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What is a BS and what is a BA?
A BA is a Bachelor of Arts degree. A BS is a Bachelor of Science degree. In many University of Oregon majors, students can choose to earn either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS). Some majors lead only to a BA or BS. To earn a BA, students must demonstrate proficiency in a second language. To earn a BS, students must demonstrate proficiency in math and/or computer information science. See the Student Handbook and the Catalog for more detailed information.
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To earn a BA, you must demonstrate proficiency in a second language that is equivalent to two years of college work. This is usually done by completing two years of a second language at the college level. These classes must be passed with a C-, P, or above. There are other ways to demonstrate language proficiency, including an examination.
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To earn a BS, you must demonstrate proficiency in Mathematics and/or Computer and Information Science (CIS). You can do this by passing the equivalent of one year of college-level work in mathematics and/or CIS with a C-minus, a P, or better. You may need to take up to five courses, depending on your experience in math and CIS. See the Student Handbook, Class Schedule, or Catalog for more detailed information.
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If you are doing a BS, a second language is not required, unless it is required for your major. However, you may want to take a language anyway. Some language classes at the second-year level and above count toward Arts and Letters group requirements.
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Once you decide to pursue either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor
of Science(BS), you can declare your choice using DuckWeb. Log onto
DuckWeb, select "Student Menu," and then select "View Degree Audit".
On the upper right hand side of the Degree Audit, there is a drop down
menu where either a BA or BS can be selected. Select your desired
degree from this menu and click the "submit" button to complete your
selection. Please note that the degree selection drop down menu does not appear on the printer-friendly version of the Degree Audit.
Grade points are calculated by assigning points for each credit of a letter grade, as follows:
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A+
4.3
A
4.0
A-
3.7
B+
3.3
B
3.0
B-
2.7
C+
2.3
C
2.0
C-
1.7
D+
1.3
D
1.0
D-
0.7
F
0.0
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Marks I, W, X, AUD, and Y, and grades N and P are not counted in the GPA calculation. The GPA is computed by dividing the sum of points by the sum of credits of A, B, C, D, F. If a letter grade has a + or – next to it, then you add .3 points per credit for ‘+’ or subtract .3 points per credit for ‘-‘.
You can find your UO GPA by looking at your transcript on DuckWeb. To figure out what grades you need in one term to affect your cumulative GPA,write down the number of "Quality Points" and "GPA credits" you have earned (listed at the bottom of your degree audit or transcript). Plug these numbers into the GPA Calculator: http://registrar.uoregon.edu/grading_system#GPACalculator
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Estimate your cumulative GPA by typing expected term grades, and respective number of credits, into the chart on the right.
Where do I find out all of the requirements I need to complete to earn a bachelor’s degree?
There are many resources available to you that explain the University of Oregon bachelor’s degree requirements. These include concise charts in the Student Handbook, narrative description in the Student handbook and UO catalog, the Jumpstart Tutorial and on the Office of Academic Advising website under Earning a Degree.
Your degree audit shows how courses you have taken apply toward general university requirements, including total credits for graduation, upper-division credits, residence credits, graded credits, graded/P* credits, multicultural requirements, BA/BS requirements, and group requirements. In addition, your degree audit shows how courses you have taken apply toward your major requirements. A few majors may not be available on the degree audit. If this applies to you, contact the department for assistance assessing your progress towards the major requirements. Your degree audit is available on DuckWeb. If you have any questions on how to interpret your degree audit, please contact your major advisor or the Office of Academic Advising, 541-346-3211. [Back to top]
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POLICIES ON REPEATING COURSES AND INCOMPLETES
What is the policy on repeating courses?
Courses can only be repeated for credit only when designated as repeatable (R). The course description in the class schedule and UO Catalog indicates whether or not a course may be repeated for credit.
If you retake a course that is not designated as repeatable, the Office of the Registrar will deduct credit for that course and note the deduction on your degree audit. Also, your original grade will NOT be deleted from your transcript.
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What does an “I” grade mean on my transcript?
Instructors may assign the grade of “Incomplete.” A student can request this designation, although the instructor decides whether to allow it. The “I” is appropriate when the student is passing the class and a small, but important, part of the class cannot be completed during the term of enrollment. The mark of “I” is placed on the transcript in place of a grade and indicates that coursework is not yet completed. As long as the “I” remains an “I,” it is considered non-punitive and does not affect the GPA.
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How long do I have to complete an Incomplete?
The university requires an "I" to be removed within one calendar year (12 months). If the "I" is not completed within that time, the grade will automatically convert to an "F" (THE "I" TO "F" POLICY DOES NOT APPLY TO GRADUATE STUDENTS). When an "I" grade is given, the student should negotiate a contract with the instructor assigning the "I" grade, about when and how the "I" will be changed to a grade. STUDENTS MUST NOT RE-ENROLL IN THE COURSE IN A SUBSEQUENT TERM . This is not an appropriate method for completing an "I." Instructors may establish an earlier deadline for the work required to be completed.
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How do I appeal a grade?
Students who feel they have been graded unfairly in a course should review the issue first with the faculty member. Following this review, if the students are not satisfied they should discuss the problem with the chairperson of the department in which the course was taken. If the student does not feel satisfied with the result of meeting with the instructor or the department chairperson, he/she may make an appointment with an advisor in the Office of Academic Advising by visiting 364 Oregon Hall or by calling (541)346-3211. The advisor can explain options to the student, including petitioning the Scholastic Review Committee.
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ACADEMIC STATUS
What is Academic Warning?
Students receive an academic warning when the UO term GPA is lower than 2.00, even if the UO cumulative GPA is 2.00 or higher. This notation is not recorded on the student's academic transcript.
Academic warning is given as a courtesy to advise students of potential academic difficulty. Academic probation does not depend on the student receiving prior notice of academic warning.
What is Academic Probation?
Academic probation is earned and the notation "Academic Probation" is recorded on the student's academic transcript whenever the following conditions exist:
1. When the UO cumulative GPA is lower than 2.00. Students who have earned 44 or fewer credits are allowed two terms of probation before they are subject to disqualification. Students with more than 44 credits are only allowed one term of probation before they are subject to disqualification. Students on academic probation whose UO cumulative GPA is lower than 2.00 and whose UO term GPA is 2.00 or higher remain on academic probation.
2. When the student's three most recent UO term GPAs are lower than 2.00, even if the UO cumulative GPA is above a 2.00.
Students on academic probation are limited to a study load of no more than 15 credits. Incoming students may be admitted on academic probation and are notified when such action has been taken; these students may be suject to disqualification after a single term of probation.
Please note that academic probation is different from financial aid probation, which is imposed by the Office of Financial Aid when a student is not making satisfactory progress.
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What is Disqualification?
Academic disqualification is earned and the notation "Disqualification" is recorded on the student's academic transcript whenever the following conditions exist:
1. Students on academic probation for having a UO cumulative GPA lower than 2.00 who earn a UO term GPA lower than 2.00 in their next term.
2. Students on academic probation for having their three most recent terms of UO term GPAs lower than 2.00 and who earn less than a 2.00 term GPA for the fourth consecutive term.
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Disqualified students are not eligible to enroll for further regular terms, except for summer session. Students are asked to take leave from the university for one calendar year after disqualification. During this time it is highly recommended that students take classes at a community college or another college or university to give evidence of academic ability in their petition for reinstatement. Reinstatement to the university must be approved by petition through the Scholastic Review Committee. Students should contact the Office of Academic Advising with questions regarding how to plan their course schedules while away from the university.
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What is Reinstatement?
Reinstatement allows a student who has been academically disqualified to once again register for classes at the UO. Reinstatement is granted by the Scholastic Review Committee following review of a petition submitted to the committee by the student desiring to be reinstated. Students whose reinstatement petitions are approved will be assessed a $50.00 fee.
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What is Re enrollment?
Re enrollment occurs when a student returns to the UO following an absence of more than three terms, not counting summer
session. Re enrolling undergraduate students must submit an application for re enrollment prior to the beginning of the term for which you intend to re enroll. You may download the form from the Office of the Registrar or contact them by phone at 541-346-3243 to request a form by mail.
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Is it possible to request an exception to an academic requirement?
If students find it necessary to ask for an exception to an academic requirement or procedure, two standing faculty committees meet regularly (approximately twice a month) to hear and act on such requests. The functions of the two committees differ in that the Scholastic Review Committee (SRC) considers petitions that are for previous terms and the Academic Requirements Committee (ARC) reviews petitions that are for current terms and for exceptions to graduation requirements.
The Scholastic Review Committee reviews petitions for the following:
Academic reinstatement
Cancellation of disqualification
Cancellation of academic probation
Complete or selective withdrawal from courses after the 10th week of the term
Change in grading option after the 10th week of the term (when not needed for graduation)
Contested grade (request for change of grade when the instructor feels such a change is not warranted)
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To file a petition with the Scholastic Review Committee, students must contact the Office of Academic Advising in person at 364 Oregon Hall or by phone at (541) 346-3211. An advisor will provide assistance in completing the petition. The SRC meets approximately every two weeks. Petitions to withdraw, change a grading option, or contest a grade are subject to a three year time limit. Petitions must be filed within three years following the term in question.
The Academic Requirements Committee reviews the following student petitions:
Exceptions to graduation requirements including
Group requirements
Multicultural requirements
Change in grading option when needed for graduation
Exceptions to registration deadlines including
Late registration
Adding course(s) past the prescribed deadline (any term)
Delete course(s) from academic history any term (drop with no W); individual courses only
Register for more than 24 credits (any term)
Selective withdrawal after deadline
Change in grading option after deadline
To file a petition with the Academic Requirements Committee (ARC), students must contact the Office of the Registrar in 220 Oregon Hall. The Registrar may also be contacted by phone at (541) 346-3243. A records specialist will provide assistance in completing the petition. Students may also contact as advisor in the Office of Academic Advising to discuss their petition. The ARC meets as needed.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND OTHER RESOURCES
What resources are available for minority students?
The UO ethnic student unions and the Multicultural Center work to ensure that students of color have a successful and productive experience at the UO. A few of the many student unions are: Asian/Pacific American Student Union, Black Law Student Association, Hawaii Club, Kultura Philipinas, Moveimiento Estudianti Chicanos de Aztlan (MEChA), Native American Student Union, and Oregon Student of Color Coalition. Programs provide mentorship and advocacy, and assist students in developing programs designed to enhance and foster a campus environment, which recognizes, celebrates, and values its racial diversity and personal development. Please visit Diversity at the UO to learn more about resources available for minority students at the UO.
The Office of Multicultural Academic Success (OMAS) is dedicated to helping students of color successfully complete their University of Oregon education. OMAS offers a leadership team, special events, awards for students of color, support systems, workshops, tutoring, advising, and educational opportunities. To learn more, please visit the OMAS web site or make an appointment with an advisor by calling (541) 346-3479.
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What resources are available for international students?
The Office of International Affairs can give you support, connect you with other international students, and provide information on international student orientation, immigration matters, AEIS classes, and other issues. They are located in 330 Oregon Hall, at (541)346-3206. International Affairs also gives US students information about study abroad, including internships abroad. There is also the Mills International Resource Center in the Erb Memorial Union on the mezzanine level. The MIRC can be contacted by email at irc@darkwing.uoregon.edu, and by phone at (541)346-0887. For online information on admission for international students refer to the Admissions web site: http://admissions.uoregon.edu/international.html.
I’m the first person in my family to attend college. Is there a program for me?
Yes! The University Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) provides learning support and special programs for first generation college students. TLC provides comprehensive free support for qualified students through the McNair Scholars and Student Support Services (SSS) programs. Contact TLC by phone at (541) 346-3226 or stop by their main office in 68 Prince Lucien Campbell Hall (PLC).
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What is Student Support Services?
Student Support Services (SSS) are provided to individuals overcoming particularly challenging obstacles in the pursuit of an undergraduate degree. These challenges include students who are low income or whose parents did not earn a bachelors degree. Through Student Support Services, McNair Scholars Program, and the Undergraduate Support Program, qualifying students are helped. Students in these programs are provided special opportunities to develop the skills, knowledge, and self-confidence that allow them to make timely progress toward graduation and career goals. For more information about these programs contact the University Teaching and Learning Center by phone at (541) 346-3226 or stop by their main office in 68 Prince Lucien Campbell Hall (PLC).
How can the Financial Aid Office help me?
Contact the Office of Financial Aid to get information about: the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), federal aid programs, scholarships, deadlines, parental contributions, expenses, private loans, grants, work-study, satisfactory academic progress, number of earned credits, and eligibility.
First-Year Programs sponsors programs for students in their first year at the University of Oregon. There are FIGS (Freshman Interest Groups), Freshman Seminars, and Transfer Seminars. These programs offer opportunities for small classes, mentoring to help navigate the university, and learning about the research interests and creative work of some of the university's most popular professors. Contact First-Year Programs by phone at (541)346-1241, in person in 470 Oregon Hall, or on the web at http://firstyear.uoregon.edu/FYP_home.html.
A FIG consists of 25 first-year students who take the same two thematically linked courses during the fall term. The FIG also meets in a faculty-led 1-credit College Connections course that offers mentoring and further exploration of course material. For more information, contact First-Year Programs by phone at (541)346-1241 or in person in 470 Oregon Hall.
Freshman Seminars are 3-credit discussion-oriented in which groups of 18 to 23 students explore topics of special interest to the faculty teaching the seminars. These courses develop writing, speaking, and critical-reasoning skills, in addition to providing faculty guidance and peer interaction.
The Society of College Scholars is designed for incoming students with excellent high school records. As freshmen, College Scholars complete a 1-credit colloquia in the fall, winter, and spring terms. The colloquia introduce students to University of Oregon honors programs that focus on the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Students are introduced to the nature of academic inquiry, interact with distinguished faculty, and are closely guided in creating an academic plan. As sophomores, College Scholars participate in the scholars circle in which they take a one-credit "Circle" course each term. In their junior year College Scholars are encouraged to enter an internship program and as seniors they complete the program by pursuing either Departmental Honors or a UO professional distinctions certificate. College Scholars may also register for General Education courses offered each term exclusively for participants in the program. Visit http://cas.uoregon.edu/collegescholars for more information.
There is specialized advising available for students with interests in the fields of law, education, business, social work, and health sciences. Pre-health science advising focuses on fields including dentistry, medicine, nursing, optometry, pharmacy, podiatry, physical therapy, medical technology, physician assistance, occupational therapy, and veterinary medicine. Contact the Office of Academic Advising to discuss your pre-professional goals with an advisor and to learn about pre-professional workshops, which are offered regularly.
GRADUATION
For information on graduation, see the following on the Office of Student Life web page:
Students who plan to receive a bachelor's degree should complete an on-line degree application, available on DuckWeb, by the second week of classes in the term BEFORE the term of anticipated graduation. The deadline is listed on the Academic Calendars and Deadlines section of the Registrar's web site. Advance notice of the intent to graduate permits timely review of degree requirements and notification of deficiencies in general education requirements, allowing you to plan or change your final term course schedule to ensure completion of all requirements.
Applications received by the priority deadline are processed and students notified of degree progress prior to the next term's registration. Applications will be accepted through the end of the second week of classes in the term of anticipated graduation. Students applying for concurrent degrees must submit two separate applications in the Office of the Registrar, 220 Oregon Hall.
How do I see how I am progressing toward graduation?
Bring a copy of your degree audit to the Office of Academic Advising in 364 Oregon Hall, and an advisor can help you assess your progress towards your degree. Students are encouraged to review their degree audits with an advisor on a regular basis. Degree audits can be printed from your DuckWeb account and computers in the Office of Academic Advising are available for this purpose.
Diplomas are mailed approximately six weeks after your graduation date. For example, if you graduate in June (at the end of Spring term), you can expect to receive your diploma around the end of July. Diplomas are produced by an off-campus commercial printer and mailed via first class mail to the address designated as your permanent residence or to your diploma mailing address. You may update your permanent address and/or your diploma mailing address when you apply for your degree on DuckWeb.
Graduating seniors who have earned at least 90 credits in residence at the University of Oregon and have successfully completed all other university degree requirements are eligible for university graduation with Latin honors. These distinctions are based on students' percentile rankings in their respective graduating classes, as follows:
Top 10% cum laude
Top 5% magna cum laude
Top 2% summa cum laude
The Office of the Registrar computes Latin honors upon graduation
Some departments also bestow other types of honors.
You may graduate any term when you have completed all of your degree requirements and notified the Office of the Registrar in a timely manner. Completion of degree requirements, not time, is the standard.
Can I "walk" at graduation if I lack a few credits?
According to the Office of the Registrar: “In February 2002, the University’s Undergraduate Council approved a motion stating that only students who will have met all degree requirements by the date of graduation are eligible to have their names listed in the commencement program and to be considered for departmental and University (i.e., Latin) honors. However, students who will not meet the requirements will not be excluded from attending the main University ceremony.”
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The Office of the Registrar will check student records for all bachelor’s degree applicants during the term of graduation. If all degree requirements are not completed (courses in progress during the anticipated term of registration are included in this evaluation) the Office of the Registrar will invalidate the degree application and remove the student's name from the official commencement program and consideration for University honors.
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Commencement ceremonies are held in spring and summer terms only. If you graduated fall or winter term, you are eligible to participate in the spring term commencement ceremony, provided you meet the criteria. In addition to the main, University-wide spring ceremony, individual ceremonies are held in individual schools, colleges, and majors. You will receive information from your major department about these ceremonies.
Check the Academic Calendars and Deadlines on the Registrar's web site for when to apply for graduation. If you have questions, contact the Office of the Registrar at 220 Oregon Hall or go online at http://registrar.uoregon.edu/.
OTHER QUESTIONS
How should I take notes and study?
There is a simple and accurate equation: time spent studying equals success. However, managing your time so that studying is your first priority is likely to be your most difficult challenge, especially as you work through the transition from high school, or your previous life before becoming a full-time student. Allocate two hours a week of studying for each hour spent in class. Studying does not mean simply doing the assigned homework. It means asking independent questions and searching for answers to your questions. It means visiting your professor during office hours. It means working with study partners as well as solitary hours of reading and writing in the library. If you need help with study skills or time management, the University Teaching and Learning Center is a useful resource.
Full time students should expect to average thirty five to fifty hours a week being a student – attending class and studying.
Working no more than twenty hours a week is possible, and some studies suggest even beneficial, especially if the job is on-campus. To the extent possible, make your studies your first priority. You will need to manage your time effectively in order to balance studying and working. The University Teaching and Learning Center offers skill building classes in time management.
Can I attend another school while a registered student here on campus?
Yes, you can attend another school and still be a student at the University of Oregon. If you take courses elsewhere you are responsible for making sure that the courses transfer to the University and for providing an official transcript to the Office of the Registrar. Please talk to a record specialist in the Registrar's Office to discuss transfer of credits from another college.
What opportunities are available to study at other universities?
Students who wish to study at another university in the United States or Canada can do so through the National Student Exchange Program. This program allows students to study for up to a year at other universities that participate in this program. Contact Karen Cooper in 364 Oregon Hall or call 346-3211. If you wish to study abroad contact the Study Abroad Programs at 346-3207 or by visiting their office at 330 Oregon Hall.
Can I get credit for my bachelor's degree by taking a graduate course? If so, how?
Only seniors are eligible to take graduate-level courses as an undergraduate and they must request permission to do so. This is called reservation of graduate credit. The use of the graduate-level course must be decided in advance. Two options are available. Option One permits inclusion of a graduate-level course in your bachelor's degree program. Option Two reserves a graduate level course for consideration by a department after admission as a graduate student. Both options require approval by the head of the department and the instructor of the course. Three courses or 12 credits of graduate credit is the maximum that an undergraduate student may take. Furthermore, some graduate courses, such as Research (601) and Supervised College Teaching (602), are only open to graduate students. The Reservation of Graduate Credit form can be obtained from the Graduate School, which is located in 125 Chapman Hall, and on their web site at http:gradschool.uoregon.edu/.
How can my department find out more about AdvisorTrac?
AdvisorTrac is a note taking system used by a number of departments at the University of Oregon for academic avising. The system is coordinated through the Office of Academic Advising. If you would like more information, please contact Bil Morrill for more information. You can download the AdvisorTrac Access form here: AdvisorTrac Access Form
